From Rong Fu

Pressing On Toward The Goal

KEEPING WALKING WITH JESUS

Have you ever started something with great excitement, only to find your motivation fading along the way? Maybe it was a new job, a fitness goal, or even a spiritual commitment. Maybe you've thought, "I should be further along by now." It's easy to feel discouraged when progress is slow or life gets tough. But faith isn't about instant growth; instead, it's a journey marked by both triumphs and struggles. What matters most isn't how fast we move, but that we keep moving forward with Christ, trusting that he hasn't finished with us yet.

When I first immigrated to Australia in 2001, everything felt unfamiliar: the language, the culture, and daily life. I could never have imagined how long and winding the journey ahead would be. It took ten years to complete my accounting degree: from AMEP English classes to English for Further Study, a Certificate IV in Accounting, an Advanced Diploma, and finally – by God's grace – graduating from Western Sydney University in 2012. Many times I wanted to give up, not just because of the study load but also due to relationship struggles and three pregnancies – two with serious complications that could have cost both mine and my children's lives. Yet God held me fast. Every tear, sleepless night, and "I can't do this anymore" became part of his greater story: a story of his grace and strength helping me press on.

The apostle, Paul, understood this kind of perseverance. Even after encountering Jesus and serving him wholeheartedly, Paul admitted that he hadn't yet reached perfection. Instead, he chose to keep moving forward, through all the trials, knowing Christ was the one who had taken hold of him. He wrote in Philippians 3:12 (NLT):

"I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me."

Paul's words remind us that faith is a journey. We haven't arrived yet, but we keep pressing on because Jesus is holding us, and he has a good plan and purpose for our lives.

Paul's message encourages us that our faith journey isn't about reaching perfection but walking closely with the one who already loves and holds us. When Paul says, "I press on", he's describing determination rooted in grace, not self-effort. Like Paul, I learned that pressing on doesn't mean never struggling; it means choosing to keep trusting God through life's challenges. During my years of study, as I juggled classes, motherhood, and personal hardships, I often felt unqualified and exhausted. Yet each time I reached my limit, God gave me new strength. His grace showed up in small breakthroughs, unexpected encouragements, and quiet reminders that he wasn't done with me yet.

This same faithful, loving, and sovereign God is present in every struggle. He doesn't wait for us to have it all together before he works in our lives. He works through our weaknesses, equips us for his purposes, and sustains us for the journey ahead.

My journey of perseverance also prepared me for ministry. When I responded to God's calling to serve as an officer, I realised that patience, persistence, and trust in God were not just lessons in spiritual growth; they were essential for leadership, pastoral care, and guiding others in faith. Ministry isn't always smooth; there are setbacks, challenges, and moments that test endurance. Yet just as God holds us through life's trials, he equips and sustains those he calls into his service. Every step of faith, every moment of perseverance, strengthens our capacity to serve and reflect his glory. Because Jesus has claimed us, our daily pursuit becomes an act of love and a willing response, not pressure or performance.

So today, no matter what challenge you face – a dream that feels delayed, a complicated relationship, or a ministry that feels overwhelming – please remember: God has not abandoned you. He is faithful, loving, and powerful. Keep pressing on, trusting that he will finish the good work he has begun in you.

Reflection

• Where in your life or ministry are you tempted to give up or feel inadequate?
• How has God shown you his faithfulness in past seasons of struggle?
• What practical step can you take this week to "press on" in faith, family, or your calling, no matter how small?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for holding me even when I feel weak or ready to give up. Help me to keep pressing on, trusting that you are shaping my life and preparing me for the ministry you've called me to. Remind me that your grace is sufficient for every challenge, and may I use my journey to encourage and serve others. Give me courage and faith to continue walking in your purpose. In Jesus' name, Amen.